Refractive Surgical Corrections Iris Eye Hospital

Refractive surgical corrections are procedures aimed at correcting various vision problems such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. These surgeries are typically performed on the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, to change its shape and consequently alter the way light enters the eye, thus improving vision.

Types of Refractive Surgical Corrections:

1. LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) : One of the most common refractive procedures is LASIK. It involves creating a thin flap on the cornea using either a microkeratome blade or a femtosecond laser. After employing an excimer laser to remodel the underlying corneal tissue in order to rectify the refractive defect, the flap is relocated. Astigmatism, hyperopia, and myopia can all be treated by LASIK.
2. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) : PRK is another laser eye surgery similar to LASIK but without creating a corneal flap. Instead, the thin outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is removed before reshaping the corneal tissue with an excimer laser. PRK is suitable for individuals with thinner corneas or those involved in contact sports where corneal flap stability could be an issue.
3. SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) : SMILE is a newer refractive surgery that involves creating a small incision in the cornea to extract a small piece of tissue (lenticule), which causes the cornea to reshape and correct vision. It's minimally invasive and is performed using a femtosecond laser.
4. LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis) : LASEK combines elements of both LASIK and PRK. It involves creating a thin flap of epithelial tissue using alcohol solution and then reshaping the cornea with an excimer laser. After the procedure, the epithelial flap is repositioned.
5. Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) : RLE is a procedure similar to cataract surgery where the eye's natural lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to correct refractive errors. It is often recommended for individuals with high degrees of hyperopia or presbyopia (age-related near vision loss).
6. Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) : ICL is a procedure where a thin, prescription lens is implanted inside the eye between the iris and the natural lens. It's often used for patients who are not suitable candidates for LASIK or other corneal refractive surgeries due to thin corneas or high refractive errors.

Refractive surgical corrections have evolved over the years, offering safer and more effective options for vision correction. However, candidacy for these procedures depends on various factors such as age, corneal thickness, refractive error, and overall eye health, which should be evaluated by an experienced eye surgeon.